In a significant relief for Malayalam rapper Vedan, the Kerala High Court on Thursday (October 30) modified two bail conditions imposed earlier by the Sessions Court, paving the way for his international concert tour next month.
Background
Vedan, whose real name is Hirandas V.M., had been granted anticipatory bail in a sexual harassment case registered at Ernakulam Central Police Station. The complaint accused him of inappropriate sexual behavior towards a research scholar studying Dalit Music during a meeting in December 2022. He was booked under Sections 294(b), 354, and 354A(1)(i) of the Indian Penal Code.
While the Sessions Court had granted bail, it restricted him from leaving Kerala and required his presence before the Investigating Officer (IO) every Sunday. These conditions, according to Vedan, hindered his professional commitments, especially his international shows lined up in Dubai, Qatar, France, and Germany between November 23 and December 20.
Court's Observations
Justice C. Pratheep Kumar noted that Vedan had complied with all previous bail requirements for over a month.
The bench observed,
"If the petitioner is willing to report before the IO whenever required and intimate before leaving the country, the other conditions can be relaxed."
Accepting this, the Court found it reasonable to modify the restrictions to balance investigation needs with the artist’s livelihood.
Decision
The High Court deleted the two contentious conditions - the travel ban and mandatory weekly appearance - while directing Vedan to inform the Investigating Officer in advance before leaving India. With that, the rapper is now free to continue his tour without legal hindrance.
Case Title: Hirandas V.M. v. State of Kerala
Case No: Crl.M.C. No. 9448 of 2025